Jakarta-Cannes Strengthen Collaboration on Global Events and Film Industry

JAKARTA – Jakartaweekly.com. Deputy Governor Rano Karno and a delegation from the Jakarta Provincial Government met with Cannes Deputy Mayor Thomas Pariente at Hôtel de Ville de Cannes on Thursday afternoon (May 14).

During the meeting, the Jakarta administration studied Cannes’ strategy as a small city in southern France that has successfully hosted an international film festival for 79 years, attracting around 45,000 participants annually.

Thomas explained that the Cannes Film Festival, organized by The French Association of the International Film Festival under the leadership of Iris Knobloch, generates significant economic impact for Cannes. During the 12-day festival, economic circulation reaches approximately 216 million euros, equivalent to around Rp4.4 trillion.

“We are proud because the Cannes Film Festival is the third-largest event in the world after the Olympics and the FIFA World Cup. We are also fortunate because this festival is held every year,” Thomas said.

Beyond being known as a film city, Cannes has also succeeded in positioning international events as a key driver of its economy through tourism, media, hospitality, and the creative industry. The Cannes government supports the festival through several main venues, including Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.

Throughout the year, Cannes hosts various international events, including MIPTV and MIPCOM for the television industry, yacht and boat festivals, music festivals, and international industry conferences.

In addition, every June during the summer season, Cannes organizes a five-day music festival attended by around 15,000 visitors. The event generates an economic impact of up to 160 million euros, or around Rp3.2 trillion.

Rano expressed hope that cooperation between Jakarta and Cannes would not stop at knowledge transfer, but also open opportunities for content markets and international event management training so Jakarta can grow similarly to Cannes.

“This is extraordinary. Cannes has become a city that thrives on the event industry. In fact, 40 percent of its economic support comes from tourism. This is something Jakarta should also develop,” Rano said.

Looking ahead, he also wants Jakarta to develop talent in event management, similar to what Cannes has achieved.

“Cannes is remarkable. They even have a public university offering doctoral programs, allowing graduates to build networks with international events. One day, Jakarta should be able to achieve this too,” Rano added.